La Goélette
A restaurant on a converted old boat moored on the Maroni River, with views across the water to Suriname. It is the highest-rated restaurant in town.
The restaurant is housed in a converted old boat. According to local accounts, the vessel once served as a traveling library and was also used at the Îles du Salut (Salvation Islands) before being moored on the Maroni River. The boat seats about 35 guests, so you can dine while watching the river and Suriname on the opposite bank. The menu focuses on South American flavors, with lemon shrimp, fish skewers and ribeye steak, and music nights are common. A set menu costs about €15–18, and à la carte dining averages around €30 per person. The restaurant is at 17 Amazone Street in Balaté village on the south side of town, a few kilometers from the center, so you need to drive or take a taxi. Some visitors also arrive by boat directly from the Suriname side. Call ahead to reserve on weekends.
Opening hours
Tuesday–Saturday 12:00–14:30, 19:00–23:00; Sunday 12:00–14:30, 19:00–01:00 the next day; closed Monday (confirm with the restaurant)
Nearby sights
- Albina
- Saint-Laurent Old Town
- Camp de la Transportation
- Maroni River Pirogue Trip
- Saint-Jean Camp
- Javouhey Hmong Village
- Mana
- Saut Sabbat